Light fixture connectable device useful for establishing a network infrastructure

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are devices suitable for connection to a light fixture, that in some embodiments are useful as components of a network and/or position-determining system.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/427,727 filed on Mar. 12, 2015, which is a National Phase of PCTPatent Application No. PCT/IB2013/058481 having International FilingDate of Sep. 12, 2013, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC§ 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/699,880 filed onSep. 12, 2012 and 61/725,036 filed on Nov. 12, 2012.

The contents of the above applications are all incorporated by referenceas if fully set forth herein in their entirety.

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention, in some embodiments, relates to the field of networks,and more particularly to methods and devices useful for establishingnetworks. The invention, in some embodiments, relates to the field oflocation determination, and more particularly to methods and devicesuseful for location determination of objects, including indoor locationdetermination.

There is often a need for an electronic network in an area, for example,for providing communication, control of various devices associated withthe area, or for implementing a location determination system, e.g., toprovide Location-Based Services (LBS).

A challenge in the art relates to establishing and maintaining theinfrastructure of physical components of a network. The challenge isexceptionally great for location determination systems where there istypically a need for an infrastructure made of many discrete physicalcomponents at a relatively high density. The challenge is alsoexceptionally great when it is desired to retrofit a networkinfrastructure in an existing area (e.g., a warehouse, a supermarket, aconvention center, a mall, a park, an airport) where installation ofnetwork infrastructure is prohibitively expensive and disruptive ofnormal functioning of the area.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention, in some embodiments, relates to the field of networks,and more particularly to methods and devices useful for establishingnetworks in an area, especially for systems for location identificationin the area.

The invention, in some embodiments, relates to the field of locationdetermination, and more particularly to methods and devices useful forlocation determination of objects, including indoor locationdetermination, for example for implementing the teachings of PCT patentpublication WO2013/008169.

Specifically, some embodiments of the invention relate to devices thatare relatively quickly and easily deployable in an area, even byrelatively unskilled workers, and allow establishment and maintenance ofa network, for example, for implementing the teachings of PCT patentpublication WO2013/008169. In some embodiments, the devices areconfigured to be connected to already-present light fixtures, allowingretrofitting of an existing area (e.g., inside a building) with anetwork or installation of a network in a new area at relatively lowcost and relatively easily.

Thus, according to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, thereis provided a device suitable for connection to a light fixture,comprising:

a body configured to be electrically connected to a light fixture;

at least one signal transmitter configured to transmit a signal to anarea in the vicinity of the body;

a controller configured to control operation of at least one of anelectrical light-emitter connected to the body and/or the at least onesignal transmitter, and

at least one of:

-   -   the body further configured to allow reversible connection of an        electrical light-emitter thereto, allowing electrical connection        of a reversibly-connected light-emitter with a light fixture        through the device to allow operation of the        reversibly-connected light emitter; and/or    -   further comprising an electrical light-emitter connected to the        body as an integral part of the device.

As known in the art of light fixtures and as used herein, light-emitters(such as lightbulbs) are configured to connect with a light fixture bymating through mateable connector components. Connector componentstypically include a female socket (usually a part of the light fixture)and a male base (usually part of the light-emitter). For example, an E27connection is made by an E27 base of a standard lightbulb that mateswith an E27 socket of a standard light fixture.

As noted above, in some embodiments, a device according to the teachingsherein comprises an electrical light-emitter connected to the body ofthe device as an integral part of the device. Such a light-emitter isany suitable type of light-emitter. In some embodiments, such alight-emitter is selected from the group of light-emitters consisting ofincandescent, halogen, fluorescent, compact fluorescent (CFL), coldcathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), high-intensity discharge, solid statelighting (SSL) and light-emitting diode (LED) light emitters.

In some embodiments, the device is substantially an adaptor configuredto be connected, in the usual way through a mateable connectioncomponents, to a light fixture (typically a pre-existing light fixture)and to receive a light-emitter, such as a standard lightbulb, where thedevice has additional utility for implementing networking and locationdetermination. In some such embodiments, the device includes a networkedcontroller chip which is configured to receive control commands from anetwork and to control the light-emitter, and at least one signaltransmitter, which is configured to transmit signals suitable for use inan indoor positioning method, for example as described in PCT patentpublication WO2012/008169.

Accordingly and as noted above, in some embodiments the device body isfurther configured to allow reversible connection of an electricallight-emitter thereto, allowing electrical connection of areversibly-connected light-emitter with a light fixture through thedevice to allow operation of the reversibly-connected light emitter toemit light.

In some such embodiments, the device comprises a component of a mateableconnection suitable for mating with a base of an electrical lightemitter as at least part of the configuration of the body to allowreversible connection of an electrical light-emitter thereto, althoughtypically configuration of the body also includes other electrical andphysical components. In some embodiments, such a component is a socket.In some embodiments, such a socket is suitable for mating with amateable connection base selected from the group consisting of a malescrew-connector base, an Edison screw base, a bayonet-connector base, abipin connector base and a wedge base.

The body may be configured to allow reversible connection of anysuitable type of electrical light-emitter. In some such embodiments,configuration of the body to allow reversible connection of anelectrical light-emitter thereto is for reversible connection of alight-emitter selected from the group of light-emitters consisting ofincandescent, halogen, fluorescent, compact fluorescent (CFL), coldcathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), high-intensity discharge, solid statelighting (SSL) and light-emitting diode (LED) light emitters.

In some embodiments, the body is an integral part of a light fixture.That said, in some preferred embodiments, the body is configured to bereversibly connected to a light fixture, especially an already-existing,already-installed light fixture, for example in the manner of reversibleelectrical connection of a light-emitter (such as a lightbulb) to alight fixture. In some such embodiments, the device according to theteachings herein comprises a base suitable for mating with a socket of alight fixture as at least part of the configuration of the body to bereversibly connected to a light fixture. The device may comprise anysuitable type of base. In some such embodiments, the base is selectedfrom the group consisting of a screw-connector base (two-way orthree-way), an Edison-screw base (two-way or three-way), abayonet-connector base, a bipin-connector base and a wedge base.

In some embodiments, the body is configured to be allow reversibleconnection of a first type of electrical light-emitter thereto; and thebody is configured to be reversibly connected to a light fixture of thesame type. Some such embodiments allow one or more devices according tothe teachings herein to be installed in the existing light fixtures ofan area without substantially changing the lighting.

In some embodiments, the body is configured to allow reversibleconnection of a first type of electrical light-emitter thereto; and thebody is configured to be reversibly connected to a light fixture of asecond type; wherein the first type and the second type are different.

In some embodiments, the body is configured to include a male thread forreversible fitting of the body in a light fixture, and a female threadfor reversibly receiving the electrical light-emitter. In someembodiments, the male thread type and the female thread type are thesame, such that the light-emitter adaptor is configured to interposebetween a light fixture and an electrical light-emitter that wouldotherwise fit into the light fixture.

In some embodiments, the male thread type and the female thread type aredifferent, such that the body provides an interface between a lightfixture suitable to fit an electrical light-emitter of one kind, and anelectrical light-emitter of a different kind. For example, in someembodiments the body has an E27 male fitting and an E14 female fitting,and is thereby configured to interface between a light fixture having anE27 female fitting and a light emitter having an E14 male fitting.

For example, in other embodiments the body has an E10 male fitting andan E14 female fitting, and is thereby configured to interface between alight fixture having an E10 female fitting and a light emitter having anE14 male fitting.

As noted above, in some embodiments a device according to the teachingsherein comprises a controller configured to control operation of atleast one of an electrical light-emitter connected to the body and/orthe at least one signal transmitter.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to control operationof an electrical light-emitter connected to the body (integral with thedevice or reversibly connected to the device), for example turning on,turning off and dimming the light-emitter.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to control the signaltransmitter to transmit signals suitable for use in implementing anetwork in an area in the vicinity of the body. In some embodiments, thecontroller is configured to control the signal transmitter to transmitsignals suitable for use in implementing an indoor positioning method inan area in the vicinity of the body, for example as described in PCTpatent publication WO2012/008169. In some embodiments, the controllercomprises a computer chip. In some embodiments, the controller comprisesa digital processor.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to receive and actupon a command for controlling a connected electrical light-emitterand/or the at least one signal transmitter via a control network. Insome such embodiments, the control network is selected from the groupconsisting of a Phase Locked Loop (PLL) and a wireless communicationnetwork [such as a WiFi network, a Bluetooth® network, a GSM network, aLTE network, a WiMax network, a DECT network, or a WCDMA network.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to receive and actupon at least one command selected from the group consisting of: acommand for activating or deactivating a light-emitter connected to thedevice; a command for changing the identity or profile of alight-emitter connected to the device; a command for troubleshooting alight-emitter connected to the device; a command for synchronizing asignal transmitter with at least one other signal transmitter of adevice controlled by the network; and a command for changing a signaltransmission schedule.

As noted above, in some embodiments a device according to the teachingsherein comprises at least one signal transmitter configured to transmita signal to an area in the vicinity of the body.

In some embodiments, at least one signal transmitter comprises awireless electromagnetic radiation signal transmitter.

In some such embodiments, at least one signal transmitter comprises aWiFi transmitter and the controller is configured (inter alia) tocontrol the WiFi transmitter to transmit according to a WiFi protocol.In some such embodiments, the controller is configured to addinformation to a transmitted WiFi beacon signal, for example by beaconstuffing. In some such embodiments, the information comprises a signaltransmission schedule.

In some such embodiments, at least one signal transmitter comprises aBluetooth® transmitter and the controller is configured (inter alia) tocontrol the Bluetooth® transmitter to transmit according to a Bluetooth®protocol.

In some such embodiments, at least one signal transmitter comprises asource of infrared light and the controller is configured (inter alia)to control the source of infrared light to generate a modulated infraredsignal.

In some such embodiments, at least one signal transmitter comprises asource of UV-visible light and the controller is configured (inter alia)to control the source of UV-visible light to generate a modulatedUV-visible light signal. For example, in some embodiments, modulationcomprises a flicker (e.g., intensity burst) of the light from theUV-visible light source. In some such embodiments, the flicker isshorter than 0.01 seconds. In some such embodiments, the flicker isshorter than 0.001 seconds. In some embodiments, the source ofUV-visible light that is controlled to generate a modulated light signalis the light-emitter as described above, that is also used forillumination. In some embodiments, the source of UV-visible light thatis controlled to generate a modulated light signal is a differentlight-emitter, different from the light-emitter as described above, thatis also used for illumination.

In some embodiments, the signal transmitter comprises a sound source andthe controller is configured to control the sound source to generate amodulated sound signal, typically a modulated sound signal having a basefrequency. In some embodiments, the sound signal is inaudible to human,In some embodiments, the base frequency is in the range of 18 kHz and 24kHz. In some embodiments, the base frequency is in the range of 21 kHzand 24 kHz. In some embodiments, the duration of such a sound-signal isnot more than 100 microseconds. In some embodiments, the duration ofsuch a sound-signal is not more than 50 microseconds. In someembodiments, the duration of such a sound-signal is not more than 20microseconds. In some embodiments, the duration of such a sound signalis not less than 0.1 microseconds. In some embodiments, the duration ofsuch a sound-signal is in the range of 1 and 10 microseconds.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to activate the signaltransmitter periodically. In some embodiments, the controller isconfigured to activate the signal transmitter intermittently. In someembodiments, the controller is configured to activate the signaltransmitter at times designated according to a signal transmissionschedule.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to optionally activatethe signal transmitter to transmit a general broadcasting signal. Insome such embodiments, the general broadcasting signal comprisesinformation such as commercials, updates, security notifications and thelike.

In some embodiments, a device according to the teachings herein furthercomprises a signal receiver. In some embodiments the signal receiver isconfigured to receive signals transmitted by a signal transmitter of adifferent such device.

In some embodiments, the signal receiver is configured to receive thesame type of signal as the signal transmitter is configured to transmit.

In some such embodiments, the signal receiver is configured to receivesound signals and the signal transmitter is configured to transmit soundsignals.

In some such embodiments, the signal receiver is configured to receiveinfrared signals and the signal transmitter is configured to transmitinfrared signals.

In some such embodiments, the signal receiver is a WiFi receiver and thesignal transmitter is a WiFi transmitter. In some such embodiments, thedevice is further configured to function as a WiFi access point. In somesuch embodiments, the the controller, signal receiver and signaltransmitter are together configured to function (inter alia) as a WiFiaccess point.

In some embodiments, the signal receiver is configured to receive a typeof signal different from the signal type the signal transmitter isconfigured to transmit.

In some embodiments, the signal receiver is a WiFi receiver and thesignal transmitter is configured to transmit sound signals. Some suchembodiments are suitable for implementing the teachings of PCTpublication WO2013/008169.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured, upon malfunction ofat least one component of the device, to use the signal transmitter totransmit an error signal; and the controller is configured, upon receiptof such an error signal from a different such device, to operate inplace of the different device.

In some embodiments, the device according to the teachings herein isconfigured to draw electricity, when electrically connected to a lightfixture, from a light fixture for powering at least some of the devicecomponents in addition to powering a light emitter. In some embodiments,at least one such component is selected from the group consisting of thesignal transmitter, the controller and, if present, the signal receiver.

In some embodiments, the device further comprises an electricity storageunit configured to store electricity for powering at least some of thedevice components. In some embodiments, at least one such component isselected from the group consisting of the signal transmitter, thecontroller and, if present, the signal receiver. In some embodiments,the electrical storage unit is at least one electricity storage unitselected from the group consisting of a battery, a rechargeable batteryand a capacitor. In some embodiments, the device is configured to drawelectricity from the electricity storage unit for powering at least someof the components when no power is available from a the light fixture,for example during a power outage.

In some embodiments, the device further comprises a clock. In someembodiments the clock is used to help synchronize the controller withthe controllers of other such devices, for example using asynchronization protocol such as IEEE 1588.

Some embodiments of devices according to the teachings herein are usefulas infrastructure components for a network or a system for locationdetermination in an area.

Thus, according to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, thereis also provided a network infrastructure in an area, comprising: atleast two devices suitable for connection to a light fixture accordingto the teachings herein, deployed in an area by electrical connection tolight fixtures located in the area.

Thus, according to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, thereis also provided system for location determination in an area,comprising: at least two devices suitable for connection to a lightfixture according to the teachings herein, deployed in an area byelectrical connection to light fixtures located in the area.

Some embodiments of the devices according to the teachings herein allowquick, simple and easy-to-maintain installation of infrastructurecomponents for a network or a system for location determination in anarea, for example, by connecting to light fixtures in the area.

Thus, according to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, thereis also provided a method of deploying a network infrastructure in anarea, comprising: providing at least two devices suitable for connectionto a light fixture according to the teachings herein; and electricallyconnecting the devices to light fixtures in the area.

Thus, according to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, thereis also provided a method of making a system for location determinationin an area, comprising: providing at least two devices suitable forconnection to a light fixture according to the teachings herein; andelectrically connecting the devices to light fixtures in the area.

In some embodiments of the methods, network infrastructure and system,the light fixtures in the area are pre-existing light fixtures.

In some embodiments of the methods, network infrastructure and system,the light fixtures in the area are a part of a physical structure in thearea.

In some embodiments of the methods, network infrastructure and system,the area is indoors. In some embodiments, the area is selected from thegroup consisting of a warehouse, a supermarket, a convention center, amall, an indoor parking garage, and an airport.

In some embodiments of the methods, network infrastructure and system,the area is outdoors, and in some embodiments, at least one lightfixture is a street lamp. In some embodiments, the area is selected fromthe group consisting of a parking lot, a park or a street.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there isalso provided a method for location determination in an area,substantially as described herein.

Aspects of some embodiments of the teachings herein relate to locationdetermination in a specified area. Methods and devices useful forunderstanding some aspects of the teachings herein, and/or for assistinga person having ordinary skill in the art to implement some of aspectsof the teachings herein are described in PCT patent applicationIB2012/053499 filed 9 Jul. 2012 and published on 17 Jan. 2013 asWO2013/008169. Prior to publication, the PCT patent application in itsentirety was included as an Appendix in U.S. Provisional PatentApplications No. 61/699,880 filed 12 Sep. 2012 and 61/725,036 filed 12Nov. 2012, the priority documents of the instant application, interalia, providing enabling support for some aspects of the invention.Since WO2012/008169 has been published, it is hereby included byreference as if fully set-forth herein. By this inclusion, no new matterhas been added.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which the invention pertains. In case of conflict, thespecification, including definitions, take precedence.

It is important to note that as used herein, an electrical light-emitteris a light-emitter suitable for and configured to have an illuminationoutput sufficient to function in the manner of an area-lighting elementsuch as a lightbulb. In some embodiments, the illumination output of thelight-emitter is at least 200 lumen (about that of a 25 W incandescentlightbulb), in some embodiments at least 350 lumen (about that of a 35 Wincandescent lightbulb) and in some embodiments at least 500 lumen(about that of a 40 W incandescent lightbulb).

In some embodiments, the divergence of light produced by a light-emitteraccording to the teachings herein is at least about 5 degrees. In someembodiments, the divergence of light produced by a light-emitteraccording to the teachings herein is at least about 10 degrees. In someembodiments, the divergence of light produced by a light-emitteraccording to the teachings herein is at least about 20 degrees. In someembodiments, the divergence of light produced by a light-emitteraccording to the teachings herein is at least about 60 degrees. In someembodiments, a light-emitter according to the teachings herein isconfigured to illuminate at least a hemisphere.

As used herein a light fixture (also called a light fitting) is anelectrical device useful for illuminating an area using an electricallight emitter. It is appreciated that in the context of the presentapplication, the term light fixture relates to any source of electricitywhich can be used to power a lightbulb or other light emitting element,such as an overhead light fixture, a chandelier, a lamp, or anelectrical socket. Typically, a light fixture has a fixture body and isconfigured (e.g., includes a light socket) to be allow reversibleconnection of an electrical light-emitter (e.g., lightbulb) thereto,allowing electrical association of a connected light-emitter with alight fixture to allow operation of the light emitter and allows simplereplacement of the light-emitter.

Some embodiments of the teachings herein include a base or a socketcomponent of a known light-fixture/light emitter connector.

In some such embodiments the connector component is of an Edison-screwconnector, e.g., E5, E10, E11, E12, E14, E17, E26, E27, E29, E39, E40 orskirted Edison-screw connector.

In some such embodiments the connector component is of abayonet-connector, e.g., BA5s, BA7s, BA9s, BA9s, B15d, BA15d, BA15s,BAY15d, BAX15s, BA15s, BA20d, BA20s, BA21d, B21-4, B21s-4, B22d, BY22d,B22d-3, BX22d, B24s-3, BC-3 or GZ10 or fluorescent T2, T4, T5, T8, T9,T10, T12, T17 or PG17.

In some such embodiments the connector is of a bipin-connector, e.g.,G4, GU4, GY4, GZ4, G5, G5.3, G5.3-4.8, GU5.3, GX5.3, GY5.3, G6.35,GX6.35, GY6.35, GZ6.35, G8, GY8.6, G9, G9.5, GU10, G12, G13, G23, GU24,G38 or GX53.

In some such embodiments, the connector is of a wedge connector, e.g.,W2.1×9.5d or W2.5×16q.

As used herein, the terms “comprising”, “including”, “having” andgrammatical variants thereof are to be taken as specifying the statedfeatures, integers, steps or components but do not preclude the additionof one or more additional features, integers, steps, components orgroups thereof. These terms encompass the terms “consisting of” and“consisting essentially of”.

As used herein, the indefinite articles “a” and “an” mean “at least one”or “one or more” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, when a numerical value is preceded by the term “about”,the term “about” is intended to indicate +/−10%.

Some embodiments of the invention may involve performing or completingselected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Someembodiments of the invention are implemented with the use of componentsthat comprise hardware, software, firmware or combinations thereof. Insome embodiments, some components are general-purpose components such asgeneral-purpose computers or processors. In some embodiments, somecomponents are dedicated or custom components such as circuits,integrated circuits or software. For example, some embodiments areperformed, at least partially, as a plurality of software instructionsexecuted by a data processor, for example which is part of ageneral-purpose or custom computer. In some embodiments, the dataprocessor or computer comprises volatile memory for storing instructionsand/or data and/or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetichard-disk and/or removable media, for storing instructions and/or data.In some embodiments, implementation includes a network (e.g., Internet,Intranet, wired, wireless) connection. In some embodiments,implementation includes a user interface, generally comprising one ormore of input devices (e.g., allowing input of commands and/orparameters) and output devices (e.g., allowing reporting parameters ofoperation and results).

The teachings herein may be implemented using standard techniques knownto a person having ordinary skill in the art of electronics,communications and networking upon perusal of the disclosure and of PCTpublication WO2013/008169.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the invention are described herein with reference tothe accompanying figures. The description, together with the figures,makes apparent to a person having ordinary skill in the art how someembodiments of the invention may be practiced. The figures are for thepurpose of illustrative discussion and no attempt is made to showstructural details of an embodiment in more detail than is necessary fora fundamental understanding of the invention. For the sake of clarity,some objects depicted are not to scale. In the Figures:

FIG. 1A is a schematic depiction of a device according to the teachingsherein comprising an integral electrical light-emitter;

FIG. 1B is a schematic depiction of a device according to the teachingsherein configured to be allow reversible connection of an electricallight-emitter thereto; and

FIG. 2 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of deployment ofdevices according to the teachings herein in a specified area\, togetherconstituting at least a part of a network infrastructure and/or at leastpart of a system useful for location determination in the area.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The invention, in some embodiments, relates to the field of networks,and more particularly to methods and devices useful for establishingnetworks.

The invention, in some embodiments, relates to the field of locationdetermination, and more particularly to methods and devices useful forlocation determination of objects, including indoor locationdetermination, for example for implementing the teachings of PCT patentpublication WO2013/008169.

Thus, according to an aspect of some embodiments of the presentinvention, there is provided a device suitable for connection to a lightfixture, comprising:

a body configured to be electrically connected to a light fixture;

at least one signal transmitter configured to transmit a signal to anarea in the vicinity of the body;

a controller configured to control operation of at least one of anelectrical light-emitter connected to the body and/or the at least onesignal transmitter, and at least one of:

-   -   the body further configured to allow reversible connection of an        electrical light-emitter thereto, allowing electrical connection        of a reversibly-connected light-emitter with a light fixture        through the device to allow operation of the        reversibly-connected light emitter; and/or        further comprising an electrical light-emitter connected to the        body as an integral part of the device.

In some embodiments, the invention relates to a light-emitting devicecomprising a standard CFL lightbulb, which has been modified to includea networked controller chip which is configured to receive controlcommands from a network controlling the lightbulb, and at least onesignal transmitting component, which is configured to transmit signalssuitable for use in an indoor positioning method, for example asdescribed in PCT patent application WO2013/008169 of the Applicant.

The principles, uses and implementations of the teachings of theinvention may be better understood with reference to the accompanyingdescription and figures. Upon perusal of the description and figurespresent herein, one skilled in the art is able to implement theteachings of the invention without undue effort or experimentation. Inthe figures, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, itis to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in itsapplication to the details of construction and the arrangement of thecomponents and/or methods set forth herein. The invention is capable ofother embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.The phraseology and terminology employed herein are for descriptivepurpose and should not be regarded as limiting.

Reference is now made to FIG. 1A, which is a schematic depiction of adevice suitable for connection to a light fixture according to theteachings herein that further comprises a light emitter that is anintegral part of the device.

As seen in FIG. 1A, a device 10 can be considered a lightbulb 12 (heredepicted as a Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulb) which constitutes alight-emitter 14 configured to emit light to illuminate an area in whichdevice 10 is installed, a body (in the priority documents, sometimescalled base) 16 associated with light-emitter 14, body 16 configured tobe electrically connected to a standard E27 light fixture through aconnecting element 18 (base of E27 connector) as done in regular use ofa prior art lightbulb for illumination.

Though light-emitter 14 in the illustrated embodiment is a CFL bulb, anytype of electrical light-emitter 14 may be used in accordance with theteachings herein. For example, light emitter 14 may be an incandescentlightbulb, a halogen lightbulb, a fluorescent lamp, a compactfluorescent lamp (CFL), a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), ahigh-intensity discharge lamp, a light-emitting diode (LED), or anyother lamp or lightbulb powered by electricity to illuminate an area.

Mounted onto or within body 16, is at least one signal transmitter 20and 24, here shown as two signal transmitters: an electromagneticradiation signal transmitter 20 configured to transmit a wirelesselectromagnetic radiation signal 22, and a sound source 24 configured totransmit a sound signal 26.

In some embodiments, lightbulb 12 has mounted thereon at least onesignal receiver, here shown as a two signal receivers: anelectromagnetic radiation signal receiver 30 configured to receivewireless electromagnetic radiation signals 32, and a sound receiver 34configured to receive a sound signal 36.

Electromagnetic radiation signal transmitter 20 and electromagneticradiation receiver 30 may transmit and/or receive any type ofelectromagnetic radiation signals, including WiFi signals, Bluetooth®signals, infrared radiation signals, and radio signals.

In some embodiments, signal transmitters 20 and 24 are configured tobroadcast universally-accessible (i.e., not addressed to a specificreceiver) information-carrying signals. Such broadcast signals mayinclude information intended for recipients of the signals, such asadvertisements, updates such as updates to train or flight schedules, orsecurity notifications, for example provided by a local securityauthority or fire department.

In some embodiments, device 10 is configured so that the transmittedsignal is transmitted by modulated visible light. In some suchembodiments, device 10 is configured to modulate light fromlight-emitter 14 by flickering, that is to say, varying the intensity ofthe light produced by light-emitter 14 as a function of time,periodically, or intermittently to carry desired information.Preferably, such flickering is of sufficiently low amplitude andsufficiently rapid rate to not be a nuisance or cause irritation topeople in the vicinity of device 10, but is detectable by a suitablelight detector (e.g., a camera), to allow acquisition of data from themodulated light signal, for example by a camera of a smartphone.

A controller 40, mounted onto or within body 16, is configured tocontrol the operation of light emitter 1, and signal transmitters 20 and24. In some embodiments, controller 40 is configured to receive acontrol command from a control network (not shown). In some embodiments,the control network is a Phase Locked Loop (PLL). In some embodimentsthe control network is a wireless communication network, such as a WiFinetwork, a Bluetooth® network, or a GSM network, a LTE network, a WiMaxnetwork, a DECT network, or a WCDMA network.

In some embodiments, an operator transmits the control command over thecontrol network to controller 40. In some embodiments, controller 40receives a suitable control command from a signal received over thecontrol network, for example when different device such as 10 in thenetwork transmits a control command to controller 40 of device 10.

Typical such commands include command for activating or deactivatinglight-emitter 14. In some embodiments, such commands comprise commandsfor synchronizing one or more of signal transmitters 20 and 24 with atleast one other signal transmitter (e.g., of different device similar to10) controlled by the network. In some embodiments, such commandscomprises a command for changing the transmission schedule of signalstransmitted by one or both of transmitters 20 and 24. In someembodiments, such commands comprise commands for changing the identifieror profile of the device 10 in the network. In some embodiments, suchcommands comprise commands for troubleshooting or diagnostics of device10.

In some embodiments, device 10 also comprises an electricity storageunit (energy source) 42, such as a battery, mounted onto or within body16, and configured to supply electrical power to signal transmitters 20and 24, signal receivers 30 and 34, and controller 40, particularly attimes when electrical current provided by a light fixture throughelement 18 is unavailable, such as during a power outage.

As will be described in further detail hereinbelow with reference toFIG. 2, in some embodiments, during use one or more of signaltransmitters 20 and 24 transmit discrete signals according to a signaltransmission schedule controlled by controller 40. The discrete signalscan be used for determination of the indoor position of an object, asdescribed, for example, in PCT publication WO2013/008169.

In some embodiments, a signal transmission schedule is provided tocontroller 40 via a control network. In some embodiments, receipt of asignal by one or more of signal receivers 30 and 34 is used to definetimes for transmission of a discrete signal by one or more of signaltransmitters 20 and 24, for example as described in PCT publicationWO2013/008169.

In some embodiments, in which the signal transmitter 20 is a WiFi signaltransmitter and signal receiver 30 is a WiFi signal receiver, controller40 is functionally associated with and controls both signal transmitter20 and signal receiver 30 such that device 10 is configured to functionas a WiFi access point, in addition to other functionalities.

Reference is now made to FIG. 1B, which is a schematic depiction of anembodiment of a device 104 according to the teachings herein where thebody of device 104 is configured to allow reversible connection of anelectrical light-emitter 112 thereto, allowing electrical association ofa connected light-emitter 112 with a light fixture 100 through device104 to allow operation of light emitter 112. Device 104 can beconsidered as an adaptor configured to interpose between a light fixturesuch as 100 and a light emitter such as 112.

As seen in FIG. 1B, a standard prior art light fixture 100 includes asocket component of a standard E27 connector, threaded socket 102.

Device 104 according to the teachings herein also includes a body 106and a base component of a standard E27 connector 108 configured forfitting device 104 in light fixture 100 by mating base 108 with socket102.

Device 104 is further configured to be allow reversible connection of anelectrical light-emitter 114 (such as lightbulb 112) thereto byincluding a socket component of a standard E27 connector, threadedsocket 110, thereby configured to mate with base component of a standardE27 connector 118 of lightbulb 112, depicted in FIG. 1B as a CompactFluorescent Light (CFL) bulb. Lightbulb 112 constitutes a light-emitter114 configured to emit light to illuminate an area, a body 116 connectedto light-emitter 114, and male component of a standard E27 threadedconnector 118.

Although lightbulb 112 depicted in FIG. 1B is a CFL bulb, any suitabletype of electrical light-emitter 114 may be used in accordance with theteachings herein. For example, light-emitter 114 may be an incandescentlightbulb, a halogen lightbulb, a fluorescent lamp, a compactfluorescent lamp (CFL), a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), ahigh-intensity discharge lamp, a light-emitting diode (LED), or anyother electrical lamp or lightbulb which emits light.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1B, female threaded socket 102 oflight fixture 100, male threaded connector 118 of lightbulb 112, malethreaded connector 108 of device 104 and female threaded socket 102 ofdevice 104 are all of the same type, a standard E27 connectors, so thatit is possible to directly mate lightbulb 112 with fixture 100, in theusual way. Thus, device 104 is configured to serve as an interfacebetween a light fixture having a fitting of a first type and alight-emitter having a fitting of a second type, the second type beingthe same as the first type.

In some embodiments, a device according to the teachings herein such as104 is configured to serve as an interface between a light fixturehaving a fitting of a first type and a light-emitter having a fitting ofa second type, the second type being different from the first type. Insuch embodiments, a device such as 104 serves as an interface between alight fixture such as 100 and a light emitter such as lightbulb 112, andenables using a light-emitter having a first type of fitting with alight fixture having a different type of fitting.

For example, female thread 102 of light fixture 100 may comprise an E27screw base, whereas male thread 118 of lightbulb 112 is an E14 screw,such that thread 102 has a larger diameter than thread 118. In suchembodiments, male thread 108 of device 104 is suited to female thread102, and is an E27 screw, and female thread 110 of device 104 is suitedto receive the thread diameter of lightbulb 112, and in the presentexample comprises an E14 screw base.

As another example, female thread 102 of light fixture 100 may comprisean E10 screw base, whereas male thread 118 of lightbulb 112 is an E14screw, such that thread 102 has a smaller diameter than thread 118. Insuch embodiments, male thread 108 of device 104 is suited to femalethread 102, and is an E10 screw, and female thread 110 of device 104 issuited to receive the thread diameter of lightbulb 112, and in thepresent example comprises an E14 screw base.

Physically associated with body 106 of device 104, is at least onesignal transmitter, here shown as two signal transmitters: anelectromagnetic radiation signal transmitter 120 configured to transmita wireless electromagnetic radiation signal 122, and a sound source 124configured to transmit a sound signal 126.

In some embodiments, physically associated with body 106 of device 104is at least one signal receiver, here shown as a two signal receivers:an electromagnetic radiation signal receiver 130 configured to receivewireless electromagnetic radiation signals 132, and a sound receiver 134configured to receive a sound signal 136.

Depending on the embodiments, electromagnetic radiation signaltransmitter 120 and electromagnetic radiation receiver 130 together witha controller 140 may be configured to transmit/receive any type ofelectromagnetic radiation signals, including WiFi signals, Bluetooth®signals, infrared radiation signals, and radio signals.

In some embodiments, signal transmitters 120 and 124 are configured tobroadcast universally-accessible (i.e. not addressed to a specificreceiver) information-carrying signals. The broadcast signals mayinclude information intended for recipients of the signals, such asadvertisements, updates such as updates to train or flight schedules, orsecurity notifications, for example provided by a local securityauthority or fire department.

In some embodiments, device 104 is configured so that a transmittedsignal is transmitted by modulated visible light. In some suchembodiments, device 104 is configured to modulate visible light emittedby lightbulb 112 by flickering, that is to say, varying the intensity ofthe light produced by lightbulb 112 as a function of time, periodically,or intermittently to carry desired information. Preferably, suchflickering is of sufficiently low amplitude and sufficiently rapid rateto not be a nuisance or cause irritation to people in the vicinity oflightbulb 112, but is detectable by a suitable light detector (e.g., acameras) to allow acquisition of data from the modulated light signal,for example by a camera of a smartphone. Controller 140, mounted onto orwithin body 106, is configured to control the operation of lightbulb112, signal transmitters 120 and 124, and signal receivers 130 and 134.In some embodiments, controller 140 is configured to receive a controlcommand from a control network (not shown). In some embodiments, thecontrol network is a Phase Locked Loop (PLL). In some embodiments thecontrol network is a wireless communication network, such as a WiFinetwork, a Bluetooth® network, or a GSM network, a LTE network, a WiMaxnetwork, a DECT network, or a WCDMA network.

In some embodiments, an operator transmits the control command over thecontrol network to controller 140. In some embodiments, controller 140receives suitable control commands from signals received over thecontrol network, for example when a different device such as 104 in thenetwork transmits a control command to controller 140 of device 104.

Typical such commands include command for activating or deactivatinglightbulb 112. In some embodiments, such commands comprise commands forsynchronizing one or more of signal transmitters 120 and 124 with atleast one other signal transmitter (e.g., of different device similar to104) controlled by the network. In some embodiments, such commandscomprises a command for changing the transmission schedule of signalstransmitted by one or both of transmitters 120 and 124. In someembodiments, such commands comprise commands for changing the identifieror profile of the device 104 in the network. In some embodiments, suchcommands comprise commands for troubleshooting or diagnostics of device104 or lightbulb 112.

In some embodiments, device 104 also comprises an electricity storageunit (energy source) 142, such as a battery, mounted onto or within body106, and configured to supply electrical power to signal transmitters120 and 124, signal receivers 130 and 134, and controller 140,particularly at times when electrical current provided by light fixture100 is unavailable, such as during a power outage.

As will be described in further detail hereinbelow with reference toFIG. 2, in some embodiments, during use one or more of signaltransmitters 120 and 124 transmit discrete signals according to a signaltransmission schedule controlled by controller 140. The discrete signalscan be used for computation of the indoor position of an object, asdescribed, for example, in PCT publication WO2013/008169.

In some embodiments, a signal transmission schedule is provided tocontroller 140 via a control network. In some embodiments, receipt of asignal by one or more of signal receivers 130 and 134 is used to definetimes for transmission of a discrete signal by one or more of signaltransmitters 120 and 124, for example as described in PCT publicationWO2013/008169.

In some embodiments, in which the signal transmitter 120 is a WiFisignal transmitter and signal receiver 130 is a WiFi signal receiver,controller 140 is functionally associated with and controls both signaltransmitter 120 and signal receiver 130 such that device 104 isconfigured to function as a WiFi access point, in addition to otherfunctionalities.

Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which is a schematic depiction of anembodiment of the teachings herein, a specified area, room 200, in whichfour devices 202 according to the teachings herein are deployed byreversible connection to ordinary light fixtures 204 of room 200 in themanner of standard lightbulbs.

Devices 202 together constitute a portion of a network infrastructure inroom 200 according to the teachings herein, suitable for implementingthe teachings of PCT publication WO2013/008169.

Devices 202 together constitute at least part of a system for locationdetermination, according to the teachings herein, suitable forimplementing the teachings of PCT publication WO2013/008169.

As seen in FIG. 2, there are eight ordinary pre-existing light fixtures204 (each comprising an E27 socket) in room 200, that make up a part ofthe physical structure of room 200 for the purpose of allowingillumination of room 200.

Connected to four of light fixtures 204 are standard prior art 60 Wincandescent E27 lightbulbs 206. Connected to the other four of lightfixtures 204 are devices 202. Connection of lightbulbs 206 and devices202 to light fixtures 204 is in the usual way by mating of the E27socket of a light fixture 204 with the E27 base of a lightbulb 206 or adevice 202.

Devices 202 a and 202 b are substantially identical to device 10depicted in FIG. 1A, except that devices 202 a and 202 b include anincandescent (and not CFL) light-emitter as an integral part thereof.

Devices 202 c and 202 d are substantially identical to device 104depicted in FIG. 1B. Connected to each one of devices 202 c and 202 dthrough respective sockets 110 are standard prior art 60 W incandescentE27 lightbulbs 206.

The light-emitters of lightbulbs 206 and of devices 202 a and 202 b areoperated in the usual way to illuminate room 200. Lightbulbs 206connected to devices 202 c and 202 d as well as the light emitters ofdevices 202 a and 202 b are optionally controlled (e.g., turned on andoff, dimmed) through a respective controller (40 or 140) of a device202. Diagnostics and malfunction of lightbulbs 206 connected to devices202 c and 202 d as well as the integral light emitters of devices 202 aand 202 b is optionally reported through a network which includesdevices 202.

As discussed hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B (for exampleto implement a network or the teachings of PCT publicationWO2013/008169), one or more signal transmitters (20, 24, 120, 124) ofdevices 202 a, 202 b, and 202 c, occasionally (periodically orintermittently) transmit signals into room 200 based on a signaltransmission schedule. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, devices 202a, 202 b and 202 c are depicted transmitting sound signals 208 into room200 from signal transmitters 24 and 124 in order to implement locationdetermination according to PCT publication WO2013/008169. In theembodiment depicted in FIG. 2, device 202 d is part of the network as areserve device and does not transmit signals except as required tomaintain the network.

Depending on the embodiments, none, one or more than one of devices 202in room 200 also function as WiFi access points in the usual way.

In some embodiments, the signal transmitting schedule of devices 202 issynchronized based on the phase defined by the Phase-Locked Loop (PLL)of the devices 202, and is controlled by a respective controller (40 or140) of each device 202.

In some embodiments, the signal transmitting schedule of devices 202 issynchronized based on a synchronizing signal 210 received by a signalreceiver (30, 34, 130, 134) of each device 202. In the embodimentdepicted in FIG. 2, synchronizing signals 210 are wirelesselectromagnetic radiation signals transmitted by a synchronizer 212located in room 200, similar to that described in PCT publicationWO2013/008169, and are received by electromagnetic signal receivers 30and 130 of devices 202.

In some embodiments, the signal transmitting schedule of devices 202 issynchronized using synchronizing protocols known in the art, such asIEEE 1588. In some such embodiments, devices 202 share a common clock,such as a GNSS clock, and the clock is used for accurate synchronizationbased on a synchronization protocol.

As depicted in FIG. 2, a user 220 located in room 200 and holding asuitably configured mobile device 222, for example as described in PCTpublication WO2013/008169, operates mobile device 222 to receive signals208 transmitted by devices 202 and to use the received signals tocompute an own position in room 200, for example as described in PCTpublication WO2013/008169.

In some embodiments, an operator may use mobile device 222 to transmitcommands to a controller of one or more of devices 202, via the PLLnetwork or via a signal which is received by one or more signalreceivers of devices 202.

In some embodiments, if one of devices 202 a, 202 b or 202 c is nolonger able to function sufficiently-well as an active part of thenetwork due to malfunction or other reason, the network is configured toreplace the device with a different device. For example, if device 202 amalfunctions, the network can replace device 202 a with device 202 d.

Depending on the embodiments, identification of a device havinginsufficient function is identified by the network (e.g., the devicedoes not respond to queries) and/or by the device self-reporting usingone or both of signal transmitters (20, 24, 120, 124).

In order to ensure that the replacement device 202 d functions as didnow-replaced device 202 a, the network profile formerly associated withdevice 202 a is transmitted to controller 140 of replacement device 202d, depending on the embodiments, via the PLL, via a signal received byany one of the signal receivers (130, 134) of replacement device 202 d,or via any other network which communicates with controller 140 ofreplacement device 202 d.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, forclarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also beprovided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, variousfeatures of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in thecontext of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or inany suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other describedembodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the contextof various embodiments are not to be considered essential features ofthose embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without thoseelements.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specificembodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modificationsand variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives,modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appendedclaims.

Citation or identification of any reference in this application shallnot be construed as an admission that such reference is available asprior art to the invention.

Section headings are used herein to ease understanding of thespecification and should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

What is claimed is:
 1. A device suitable for connecting to a lightfixture, comprising: a body configured to electrically connect saiddevice to a light fixture; an electrical light emitter; at least oneWi-Fi signal transmitter; at least one Wi-Fi signal receiver; and acontroller configured to operate said device as a Wi-Fi access point ofa Wi-Fi network by controlling said at least one Wi-Fi signaltransmitter and said at least one Wi-Fi signal receiver, and whereinsaid controller controls the operation of said electrical light emitterto generate encoded information-carrying light signals by modulation oflight emitted by said electrical light emitter, based on informationreceived over said Wi-Fi network.
 2. The device of claim 1, comprising abase configured to reversibly connect said body with a socket of a lightfixture.
 3. The device of claim 2, wherein said base is selected fromthe group consisting of a screw-connector base, an Edison-screw base, abayonet connector base, a bipin connector base and a wedge base.
 4. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein said encoded light signal is suitable for usein implementing an indoor positioning method in an area in the vicinityof said body.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein said controller controlssaid Wi-Fi signal transmitter to transmit signals suitable for use inimplementing an indoor positioning method in an area in the vicinity ofsaid body.
 6. The device of claim 1, further comprising a sound source,wherein said controller is configured to control the sound source togenerate a sound signal.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein saidcontroller acts upon a command received by said at least one Wi-Fireceiver for controlling a connected electrical light-emitter and/orsaid at least one Wi-Fi signal transmitter via a control network.
 8. Thedevice of claim 7, wherein said control network is a wireless controlnetwork selected from a list of a WiFi network, a Bluetooth® network, aGSM network, a LTE network, a WiMax network, a DECT network, or a WCDMAnetwork.
 9. The device of claim 7 or 8, wherein said controller furtherreceives a signal transmission schedule via said control network;Wherein said signal transmission schedule is used to define times fortransmission of a discrete signal by said Wi-Fi transmitter.
 10. Thedevice of claim 1, further comprising a battery mounted onto or withinsaid body; wherein said battery is configured to supply electrical powerto said at least one Wi-Fi transmitter and/or said at least one Wi-Fireceiver and/or said controller.
 11. The device of claim 1, wherein saidelectrical light-emitter is selected from the group of light-emittersconsisting of incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, compact fluorescent(CFL), cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), high-intensity discharge,solid state lighting (SSL) and light-emitting diode (LED) lightemitters.
 12. A network infrastructure in an area, comprising: at leasttwo devices according to claim 1, where each said device is connected toa different light fixture located in said area.
 13. The networkinfrastructure of claim 12, wherein said light fixture is a pre-existinglight fixture.
 14. The network infrastructure of claim 12, wherein saidarea is an indoor area selected from a group consisting of a warehouse,a supermarket, a convention center, a mall, an indoor parking garage, oran airport.
 15. A method for deploying a Wi-Fi network infrastructure inan area, comprising: providing at least two devices according to claim1, suitable for connection to a light fixture; and electricallyconnecting said devices to at least two spaced-apart light fixtures insaid area forming a part of said Wi-Fi network infrastructure.
 16. Asystem for location determination in an area, comprising: at least twodevices according to claim 1, suitable for connection to a lightfixture, wherein said at least two devices are deployed in an area byelectrical connection to at least two spaced-apart light fixtureslocated in said area.
 17. A method for location determination in anindoor area, comprising: receiving at least two signals from at leasttwo devices according to claim 1; determining location based on said atleast two signals.
 18. The device of claim 1, wherein said modulationcomprises flickering.
 19. The device of claim 1, wherein said controllercomprises a processor configured to store data, and wherein saidprocessor transmits said stored data by said light modulation.
 20. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein said encoded information-carrying lightsignals are universally-accessible information-carrying signals.